Blues masterpieces—from prewar blues to blues rock
A wellspring of inspiration for rock ’n’ roll and a genre adored by the giants of music history, the blues is a style that reveals deeper and deeper richness the more you listen.
That said, even rock fans who are somewhat interested may feel there’s a high barrier to getting into it.
In this article, for those who are about to step into the world of the blues, we’ll present—at a glance—the essential classics and fan favorites you can’t skip when talking about the blues, spanning everything from prewar blues to Chicago blues and blues rock.
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Blues Classics: From Prewar Blues to Blues Rock (61–70)
I’m a King BeeSlim Harpo
Known as a classic of swamp blues, this song is distinguished by its powerful sexual innuendo using a honeybee metaphor.
With a simple instrumental setup and rhythm, Slim Harpo’s distinctive harmonica and vocals stand out.
Released in 1957, it was later covered by many artists, including the Rolling Stones, cementing its status as a blues standard.
Its influence is immeasurable, having been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008.
It’s a must-listen for those who want to fully savor the allure of the blues or explore the roots of rock.
Dead Letter BluesSon House
A track where you can feel the soulful cries of Son House, a key figure in Delta blues.
The protagonist’s profound grief and sense of loss upon receiving a letter about a loved one’s death are vividly conveyed through Son House’s powerful vocals and slide guitar.
Recorded in April 1965, it was included on the album Father of Folk Blues.
In 2019, a cover version was used as the theme song for HBO’s True Detective Season 3.
Highly recommended for those who want to experience the essence of the blues or seek songs that give voice to life’s sorrows.
Stomy MondayT-Bone Walker
T-Bone Walker is a blues guitarist and singer from Texas.
“Stormy Monday” is a classic blues song, but I haven’t often seen amateur bands perform it.
With its jazz-inflected arrangement, it’s easy to see why he is called the father of modern blues—truly a masterpiece.
Statesboro BluesThe Allman Brothers Band
A song originally recorded by the once-popular blues musician Blind Willie McTell.
Duane Allman practiced this song many times and learned to play bottleneck slide guitar.
At his funeral, the song was performed on guitar by Dickey Betts.
Mustang SallyWilson Pickett
A song about a girl living a wild life, riding in a new Mustang.
It was written by Bonny Rice, also known as Sir Mack Rice.
The track was used in the 1991 film The Commitments, which depicts an Irish soul band.